James Robert ""Jim Gentry, Jr.

James Robert ""Jim"" Gentry, Jr., 60, of Baytown was born on January 20, 1955, and passed away Tuesday, August 4, 2015, at his home. He lived in Baytown most of his life. Jim graduated from Ross S. Sterling High School in 1973, and was a proud member of the 1972 state-finalist football team. Jim attended Lee College, and then went to work at Bayer Corporation. He was employed with Bayer for almost 40 years, and was so proud to have maintained perfect attendance for all that time. Jim was also honored to be a member of the Goose Creek Masonic Lodge No. 1192.

Whether it was watching his daughters' cheer for the Rangers on Friday nights or seeing his grandson, Sam, take his first steps, Jim loved spending time with his family. Jim was married to the love of his life, and high school sweetheart, Connie. Jim and Connie's greatest accomplishment was their family. Jim dedicated his life to supporting his daughters in all of their life ventures. Jim was just as comfortable working in his beautiful backyard as he was making Pinterest projects for Jami and Keli. One of his greatest projects was the mouse trap costume he made for Sam that won him first place in his very first Halloween contest. He was so proud!

Jim had a deep love for football! He spent his Saturdays watching college football, cheering for his favorite teams! Over the last few years, Jim had become a devoted Houston Texans fan! He had so much fun watching the games with his son-in-laws, joking about the Texans vs. Cowboys rivalry!

He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Vivian Gentry. Those who will remember and forever cherish his memory are his wife of 34 years, Connie; daughters, Jami O'Leary and husband, Paul and Keli Chisholm and husband, JP; grandchildren, Sam and soon-to-be Bailey O'Leary; sister, Rhonda Fortney; and brother-in-law, Richard Weaver and wife, Zane. Jim is also survived by many wonderful nephews and nieces.

A graveside service celebrating Jim's life will be held at Cedarcrest Cemetery in Baytown, Texas on Friday, August 7, 2015, at 10:00 a.m. with Rev. Randy Piatt officiating. All friends and family are invited to attend.

Serving as pallbearers will be Richard Weaver, JP Chisholm, and Paul O'Leary. Sam O'Leary will be an honorary pallbearer.

The family extends a special thank you to Texas Oncology, Dr. Deepa Sashital and nurses, Sue and Cheryl.

In lieu of usual remembrances, contributions may be made to the following organizations that Jim held close to his heart:

• Memorial Baptist Church, 600 W. Sterling, Baytown, TX 77520

• American Cancer Society- Colon Cancer, P. O. Box 22478, Oklahoma City, OK 73126, www.cancer.org

To view the online obituary or to post a tribute for the family, go to www.navarrefuneralhome.com

Arrangements are under the direction and personal care of Navarre Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 2444 Rollingbrook Dr., Baytown, TX, 77521 (281) 422-8111.